Gremio will be the fifth Brazilian club that Santos has represented after Corinthians, Atletico Mineiro, Flamengo and Figueirense, while his stay in Europe has taken him to Fenerbahce before joining the Gunners.

Santos' last appearance for Arsenal came in the 2-2 draw against Liverpool, while he was an unused substitute in the 1-0 win over Stoke.

Santos said he was excited ahead of a move to Brazil, but that he would need time to regain his match fitness.

"I have the best expectations," Santos told Lancenet. "[Gremio] are one of the biggest clubs in the country.

"I've come to Gremio to be a champion. I am very excited about this project. I have dreamed of working with Vanderlei Luxemburgo. He is a top manager in our football.

"If there was a game today, I would like to play.

"But I need to be match fit as I played a game one day, then not the next one. I'll need five or six games to be fitter. I'm anxious to know the squad."